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The blast was believed to have been caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane in coal mines.

Authorities said Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, with preliminary findings suggesting it was caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane forming an explosive mixture in coal mines.

Energy Minister Fatih Durmaz said preliminary assessments indicated the tragedy was caused by a firedamp explosion — when methane mixes with air and fire — creating a dangerous underground situation.

Authorities said initial indications were that the blast was caused by firedamp, a term referring to methane in coal mines.

An early assessment indicated that the explosion was likely caused by firedamp, which is a reference to flammable gases found in coal mines, according to Energy Minister Fatih Durmaz.